The registered nurse is discussing care of an infant diagnosed with a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) with a nursing student. The registered nurse determines that the nursing student needs further teaching regarding a PDA when the student states that which circulatory change is a characteristic of this disorder?

A. Symptoms are continuous throughout the day:
Incorrect: Continuous symptoms throughout the day are more indicative of moderate or severe persistent asthma, not mild persistent asthma.
B. Daytime symptoms occur more than twice a week:
Correct Answer: Children with mild persistent asthma may experience symptoms more than twice a week, but less than once a day.
C. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) is greater than or equal to 80% of the predicted value:In mild persistent asthma, pulmonary function tests (e.g., PEF or FEV1) remain normal or close to normal, with values typically ≥80% of the predicted value, reflecting good lung function between episodes.
D. Nighttime symptoms occur approximately twice a month:
Mild persistent asthma often involves nighttime symptoms or awakenings occurring 3–4 times per month. If nighttime symptoms occur more frequently (e.g., once weekly), it suggests moderate persistent asthma.
E. Minor limitations occur with normal activity:Children with mild persistent asthma may experience minor limitations in their normal activities. These limitations are not severe and do not significantly impact daily life.

A. Heat intolerance
Explanation:
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that results in hyperthyroidism, meaning there is an overproduction of thyroid hormones. Common symptoms of Graves' disease include heat intolerance, increased sweating, weight loss, palpitations, and anxiety. The hyperactivity of the thyroid gland leads to an increased metabolic rate, causing heat intolerance.
B. Bradycardia
Explanation: Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically associated with Graves' disease. Hyperthyroidism usually leads to an increased heart rate (tachycardia) due to the stimulatory effects of thyroid hormones on the cardiovascular system.
C. Lethargy
Explanation: Lethargy (excessive tiredness or lack of energy) is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism, where there is an insufficient production of thyroid hormones. In Graves' disease, the excess thyroid hormones often lead to symptoms of hyperactivity, not lethargy.
D. Weight gain
Explanation: Weight gain is not a typical finding in Graves' disease. Hyperthyroidism often leads to unintentional weight loss due to increased metabolism and energy expenditure. Weight gain is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism.